Erica Jackson, Neighbor
- Smithtown, NY
A graduate of the Smithtown School District, I found my journalistic calling while attending Suffolk Community College. It wasn't until a college professor asked me to write an article for the campus paper, <i>the Compass</i>, that I realized I wanted to be a reporter. I changed my major to journalism and graduated with an associates degree in communications. I went on to attend Hofstra University where I earned a Bachelors degree in print journalism.
I started my professional career working for the Smithtown Chamber of Commerce as an administrative assistant. There, I created a monthly newsletter for chamber members. In 1999, I moved on to work for the <i>Smithtown Messenger, </i> covering local politics and happenings. After five years, I took a position as an associate editor for <i>The</i> T<i>raveler Watchman Newspaper</i> in Southold. There, I thrived on local politics, covering a wide-array of stories. During my tenure at <i>The Traveler</i>, I received an honorable mention for investigative reporting from the New York Press Association.
<i>T</i><i>he Traveler Watchman</i> was sold in 2006 to the East Hampton Independent and I was given a position with the East Hampton Independent as editor of the newly named, <i>Independent Traveler Watchman</i>.
I took some time off after my daughter, Karen was born, but soon started freelancing for papers, including the <i>News Review</i> of Riverhead and the <i>Long Island Advance</i> of Patchogue. Two years later, my son, Cole was born and I took time to spend with my children. Missing the thrill of journalism, I recently got back to my computer and started working for <i>SmithtownMatters.com</i> and now, Patch.com.
I am married to my high school sweetheart, Lee. We have two children, Karen and Cole and live in Shirley, NY.
I enjoy hiking, reading, writing and spending as much time as I can with my family.
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